Keep it all in the FAMILY

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-21T17:42:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone :)

Boy, am I behind! I have to say-- today, November 21, 2011, is the first day all semester that I've been able to sit here on the computer and not be doing homework....because I don't have any due until after Thanksgiving! YES. That probably means I should be working ahead on that stuff right now, but that's what I did all weekend. Time to take a little break :)
This year for Thanksgiving I get to go down to Bancroft, ID- not too far from Lava Hot Springs or Soda Springs...or Pocatello...or Rexburg.....just in case there's a reader out there who doesn't know a whole lot about the towns of Idaho (likely, I think). Anyway, I get to see my Aunt Jill and Uncle Glenn, my Aunt Laura and Uncle Bruce, and several awesome cousins while I am there on Thursday. I'll be traveling up with Colleen and Nephi Gibson- two of said awesome cousins- who live here in Rexburg.
...Will continue soon! (As in sometime this next!)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Quick update :)

2011-07-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

Well, I suppose I ought to get up to date with life's happenings...I'm in Colorado right now staying with Joel and Coryn and the boys- what fun it is! I have missed them A LOT! In a couple weeks I'm going to WV to see Mom and Kimberly and family! I miss them, too!

First year of college was FABULOUS. I have learned so much about singing and all kinds of things. Love it. I've applied for fast grad- which means that I go to school for all three semesters now. So I go back in September. I'm moving into a better place that is closer to the music building, and I'll have my car up there, too! woo hoo!

I've been dating John Yablonovsky from Diamond Springs, CA for just over three months. He's really great. :) Wouldn't be dating him if he wasn't!

Heavenly Father continues to bless me in all that I do and I am SO grateful for His love for me and His tender mercies. I love you all so very, very much! I hope all is well. Be strong!

Love,

Sherilyn

One semester down...29 more to go

2011-04-13T06:13:00.000-07:00

Ah, the life of a Vocal Performance Major...alright, maybe I won't be in school for 15 years, but it feels like I will be. I still get a little shocked every time I look at the list of courses I have to take to be in Music, do all my foundations classes, and be a Russian minor.....ha. That would probably explain why I'm signed up for 20 credits this next semester. Twill be fun. I know what you're probably thinking- "Sherilyn, take it easy! You should definitely drop some credits! You're going to kill yourself!" Don't worry- two of those credits are choir, three are for Basic Musicianship (where I re-learn my solfege- ugh, I'm trying to get into Musicianship I. I don't know if I could stay awake in my 7:45am What-is-a-quarter-note class...haha), and then I have Music explorations, which will also be pretty easy. And I'm doing Opera Scenes again, which is a production class, so we just have rehearsal two to three times a week. Should be a really good semester. I'm also taking Russian 102, second half of the Book of Mormon, Voice 161, Social Science Statistics (yes, that does actually sound interesting to me- I know, the nerd in me is coming out), and Diction I. A couple of exciting things- Stanford Olsen from Florida State University is coming to BYU-ID to teach this semester!!! Don't know who that is? Go ahead and Google his name- there are lots of nice biographies that show up, like the one from the Metropolitan Opera, or the one from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra; there's even a really nice video that you can watch here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EJXdW67Kwk. Yeah, I know, he's pretty cool. He's teaching the Diction I class as well as helping Brother David Olsen (my semi-private voice teacher this past semester) direct the Opera Scenes! Wowzers! I am also auditioning to be one of his voice students :) Wish me luck!!! So that's pretty exciting.

Well, there were some notable happenings this semester...I'll go with my usual listing technique:

-I sang in General Conference (Saturday afternoon session)! You can see me here: http://lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2011/04?lang=eng. That was one of the most amazing experiences I've ever had in my entire life. Wow. The Spirit was so strong, and I KNOW angels were singing with us! It was beautiful. In the very first moment we started singing up there, I felt that Zion is closer and more real than we think it to be, especially at times like that. God is good. After Conference I was able to spend the rest of the day with Emily Ritschard in Temple Square, at JB's, and in Deseret book. We had fun reliving some of the fun times we had together when we went to Salt Lake last year for the Women's Conference. Amazing, amazing times! Check out my Facebook page for pictures :)

-I am 99% sure that I got a 4.0 :) Grades come out tomorrow....eeek! I'll update when I find out!

-I got a 102% on my Russian final :) Brother Kumferman was an AWESOME teacher- I LOVE Russian :)

-Idaho is now in the mid 30's (F, not Celsius) most of the time! WOOO HOOO! I *hope* Spring is right around the corner :)

-I am now officially a Sophomore :) And if I were to take 21 credits this spring semester instead of 20, I would be a Junior at the end of the semester. Pretty neat.

-I am in West Virginia this week just relaxing, playing with my nieces and nephew, helping out with delicious meals, enjoying the sunshine and the rain, and soaking up all I can of family before I head off to the land of perpetual permafrost and crazed college students. :)

-I was able to take a weekend in Bancroft this semester and spend some quality time with Uncle Glenn, Aunt Jill, Uncle Bruce, and Aunt Laura. It was a great time! Uncle Glenn and I serenaded the company with Voice/Piano duets, we watched the fabulous BYU BBall game where Jimmer scored an awesome 34 points against Gonzaga (most of them 3-pointers! Woo!), we spent the later evening in the hot pools at Lava, and we finished off the day with delightful Banana Splits! Sunday was restful, as it should be; I met lots of wonderful people- friends of the Schenk family. Nephi Gibson's sister drove me back Sunday afternoon (his family is in Grace, too, I believe- if not Grace, very near there). Thanks to them for such a wonderful weekend away from the stresses of school! :)

-On Monday the 18th Sarah Cross and Morgan Taylor are coming to Rexburg to say hello!!!!!! WOOOOOOO! As many of you might know, Sarah Cross is my BEST FRIEND IN THE WHOLE WORLD. Like, BIG time. I am SO excited to see her!!! I haven't seen her in TWO YEARS. That is TOO LONG. And Jesse Breffle is back from his mission!! WHOA! He comes out to Rexburg Monday night! Twill be fun! AND, Katy Rickertsen will be in Rexburg, too! We're planning on spending all of our free and un-free time together this semester :) It's going to be great.

-I LOVE SINGING. It's official- I'm a Vocal Performance Major, and that is NOT changing :) ...unless Heavenly Father throws me another curve ball, of course...which happens a lot, so we'll see. BUT, my POINT is that I am more sure about singing than I have ever been in my life! Yay! It's amazing :)

-SO, to sum up, Heavenly Father is so good to me- wow. Life is wonderful- and I say all this not because everything that happens to me is good, because that is NEVER the case. There have been some really challenging times this semester, and there have been many disappointments, too. But I've realized that all those wonderful things that happen outweigh the bad by such an incomprehensible amount. It's really neat to see how gratitude tends to melt away all the bad. Heavenly Father loves us all so much- He is so delighted when we are happy, when we make trials work for our benefit, when we come off conquerer and hold fast to Him as we fight off Satan and his evil ways of fear, doubt, and despair. Yes, life is beautiful :)

Well, that's all I can think of right now....I love you all! I miss you, my wonderful, wonderful family! That's one thing about college I shall always despise- I don't have my family with me. At least Colleen and Nephi aren't too far away! It's good to see them every now and then :)

Keep in touch!!! I love hearing from you :) Call me sometime!

I love you, I love you,

Sherilyn

From The Caboose

2011-02-04T16:38:00.000-08:00

Hello Beautiful family!

I guess I just wanted to put a quick note up to say that I love you and that you are all in my thoughts and prayers all the time. I sure miss you and I am continually grateful that we are an eternal family so I don't always have to be miles away. I love you, I love you.

School is going well. I've contemplated changing my major many times, but I've always come back to Vocal Performance. I don't really know why, but I guess I'll find out some day. :) I like living life like that- just doing what feels right and going for it. I guess that's one way to describe faith. And the Lord is so good to me- He is SO good.

I am meeting some really great people. My ward is wonderful- I LOVE my bishopric. They are amazing. It is interesting, however, to see the variation in demographics-even beyond race and religion, but down to the very personality of a region- from place to place. I hate to be...choosy, or comparative, but the kids in New York City seem to be more like me than the people out here. Weird to think about, maybe, but interesting. See, maybe I should go into Sociology. Haha, just kidding.

Anyway, I love the clear sky, the fresh air, the occasional sunset I get to see- I really am excited for Spring! It is so very cold here, but it comes down to this: if you can run between classes as quickly as you can, you might be able to escape frost bite on the tip of your nose from the -20F and the -35F wind chill. ...just kidding. You'll most likely escape the frost bite. Our apartments/dorms are warm and the school buildings stay warm, too. It was wonderful to have the temperature reach 20F today! I felt like I could actually breathe without freezing my lungs! Haha, no, it really isn't as bad as I'm letting it on to be. I'm just glad it takes under 10 minutes to get anywhere on campus. Spring is going to be M-A-ZING!

So a few noteworthy points:

-104% on Russian test (I didn't miss a point, even on the extra credit)

-Passed my Piano class today..with flying hands, I mean colors

-I love Russian

-I'm figuring out how to sing...yeah, I can actually sort of sing!

-I LOVE Russian.

-I went to Sammy's last night with my roommate, Kaitlin- best burger and sweet potato fries I've had in a while! and amazing, LIVE Jazz music to go along with it :)

-Я люблю русскии язык!!!

-my choir- the Women's Choir- sang in devotional on Tuesday...you can see me :)

http://www.byui.edu/videoplayer/BYUIplayer.html?StartCue=0&EndCue=3384&VideoName=2011_02_01_DV_Call&VideoType=devotionals

(let me know if it doesn't work)

-I'm singing in GENERAL CONFERENCE! in April. Second session, look for me! :)

-I sang the National Anthem at two basketball games last weekend. Twas fun!

-I sang a duet in Sacrament Meeting last Sunday- I sort of arranged How Great Thou Art- it was beautiful, absolutely beautiful, because the Spirit was there.

-Russian is amazing.

DISCLAIMER: I, Sherilyn McGinnis, am mostly NOT the reason that the aforementioned awesome things have the privilege of being "aforementioned". Heavenly Father has helped me through EVERYTHING. So don't "Good job" me too much :) hehe. It's all Him.

So anyway, Life is Wonderful. That's a fabulous movie. Heavenly Father loves me. And He loves you, too. Every one of you. Keep faith. I love, love, LOVE hearing from you. Thank you for being the wonderful people you are. Thank you for loving me. I miss you. I love you.

Little Sister

A quick note

2010-12-02T07:49:00.000-08:00

Again, I need to apologize for not being better at blogging. I write in my journal! :) So in fifty years if you still want to know what has happened in the past three months I'll share my journal with you. It's pretty entertaining now, so I bet it will be a scream in fifty years.

I had a BEAUTIFUL and MEMORABLE Christmas Season in West Virginia, and now I'm off to more crazy adventures....

COLLEGE. Wow. Where to begin. I'm mostly baffled by the fact that I'm IN college...like, NOW. I still feel like a six year old. So that's weird. As far as how college here in Rexburg actually is...well, it's pretty much AWESOME. I love ALL of my professors. They're hilarious! They even make PUNS! Which I wholeheartedly appreciate. I'm taking Russian I (AMAZING!), Book of Mormon (seminary all over again! I've got it bright and early 7:45 AM tues and thurs: love it!), Statistics (the professor was TOTALLY impressed when I told him I got a 5 on AP BC Calculus in HS- I'll have to email Ms. Law and Mr. Ryckman), Opera Workshop (if I pass the audition this wednesday!), Voice Lessons, Women's Choir, and Piano (which I'm passing in 4 one half-hour classes!). Yep! I keep pretty busy in the Snow building where there are FOUR HALLS of practice rooms. I have to keep a voice journal and log my practice time for voice and piano. I'm loving being a music major so far. And they say the first year is the hardest. I've already had three auditions this week.

My dorm is roomy and my roommates are dormy. What? I mean REALLY COOL. Love 'em! Kaitlin, Ariel, and Nicole. We like each other a lot. It's awesome.

Rexburg is COLD, but not colder than expected. I love the West! ....and yet I miss the East. Funny how everything seems to burrow into your heart. I seem to love everything despite very opposite qualities. In fact, those unique qualities are exactly what I fall in love with- I love things, places, people FOR their differences. If any of that makes a single facet of sense to you, I commend you. We must have similar brains or something.

Well, speaking of loving people, I dearly love and miss everyone of you- my family, my friends- I miss you all! May Heavenly Father keep you safe and bless you incomprehensibly. You are all constantly in my prayers.

Love,

Sherilyn

More Julia

2010-11-13T03:24:00.000-08:00

Hello Family,

Here's another slide show with our new little sweetie.

Love you guys.

Randy

Coming Soon to a Blog Near You: College....

2010-11-12T13:47:00.000-08:00

I registered for classes today. Woo hoo! Finally, college is actually in the near future. If I've learned ANYTHING in the past four years, and especially in the past 10 months, it's been patience. Heck, it even took me an hour to figure out why the BYUI website wouldn't let me register this morning (it helps to push the Refresh button). I was afraid I would have to register next week instead of today.

Anyway, here's what I signed up for (these may change...):

Book of Mormon

Russian I

Math for the Real World (...)

Vocal Technique

Piano Skills

Opera Workshop (!!!!)

Collegiate Singers

Yep :) I'm pretty excited!

Love,

Sherilyn

Dress for the Met!

2010-11-08T21:06:00.000-08:00

Hello! SO, I went to the Metropolitan Opera. ...TWICE. In one week. It was glorious. :)

Those of you who know me well....which is probably everyone who reads this blog....you know that I LOVE Opera. I ADORE it. I think it's AMAZING.

So, I HAD to go to the Metropolitan Opera while I'm in New York City. It wouldn't be a full experience with out it.

My first Opera this time around was Il Trovatore, The Troubadour, by Verdi, and aptly written in Italian, for the plot does make one a bit ill. HOWEVER, the performance was astounding and passionate. I was accompanied by my dear, dear friend, Fiona Katrine Hoffman, who is a dancer at Juilliard. She's amazing. Anyway, we both thought the plot was a bit hard...look it up, and you'll know what I mean. :) Verdi based his opera off of an old tale called The Troubadour so it's not his story, just his vision of the story. If you want intense, you must see Il Trovatore.

I got all glammed up for it, which was a blast :) Did you know that the color red is scientifically proven to make people look more attractive? It's true. It's the universal color, apparently.

My second Opera was Don Pasquale by Donizetti. WONDERFUL opera. Boy, it's a hoot! I adored it. A lot. A. LOT. ...for several reasons:

1. Anna Netrebko, a very famous Russian Opera singer and my favorite living first Soprano, played the part of Narina- and she played it stunningly!

2. I went by myself, pretending, of course, to be a millionaire

3. It's a great comic opera- VERY funny. My kind of humor :) ...for the most part. You kind of have to understand opera to get a lot of the funniness.

4. GREAT orchestra seats dead-center stage!

5. JAMES LEVINE conducted it!!!!!!! I LOVE HIS HAIR! And he's been at the Met for 40 years!!! W.O.W.

6. Well, I love opera. It was great.

(Note: VAST understatements contained in this message)

Here are some pics. Enjoy!

Love,

Sherilyn

Not as cute as Julia by a very very long shot, but...

2010-10-29T20:13:00.000-07:00

We carved Pumpkins in the city tonight! :) Boyd was the master carver, pulling out even the drill with some very shiny knives, and I focused a little more on the details. I carved my little 8 in. diameter pumpkin entirely with a pairing knife. My pumpkin has kind of a pan-effect, so I'll post multiple views. Gavin's pumpkin, the biggest, is a vampire! And Eli's is just darn cute. Here are some pics. Enjoy!

New Arrival

2010-10-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

Announcing the arrival (that you all already know about) of Julia Joy McNeely. Weighing in at 8lbs. 10oz. and stretching out to 20.5 inches, she's the biggest of the McNeely babies. Mom and baby are doing great! Here are some pics of her, and of the family holding her.

Audition Update

2010-10-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

Phew. Well, I did my best, folks. :) Now it's all up to Heavenly Father. I don't know what His Plan for me is concerning this, but I know it's good.

Much love,

Sherilyn

Dearest Members of the Nelson-McGinnis Clan

2010-10-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

Mom, Seth, Kimberly, Randy, Emma, Camilla, Rebekah, Joseph, little girl to come, Boyd, Emily, Gavin, Eli, Joel, Coryn, JJ, Jensyn, Lincoln, Mollie, Loren, Erica, and Sophie,

I just want to say that I love you all. A LOT. And I miss you all so very much. I hope all is well, and I cordially invite you to post on this blog as frequently as your schedule allows, or at least once a month. OR, even better, give me a ring-a-ling. I miss you.

All my love,

Sherilyn

Keep your fingers crossed...

2010-10-23T20:42:00.001-07:00

It happened while I was chatting with some very amiable people and enjoying a bowl of Lucky Charms (If you're reading this, Mom, it was actually a bowl of Multi-grain Cheerios). I noticed my phone vibrating in my pocket and, as usual, pulled it out on the last vibration. Oops, I'll just have to check my voicemail. Except that the number had a 3-0-3 area code. That's weird. And then, Well, I'll just call them back. So, from the highly esoteric conversations concerning the effect of domestic growth on octogenarians living in Bengal and the gross (pun!) amount of coffee consumed during the Chinese midterms at Columbia, I excused myself and redialed the Colorado number. (There isn't another feeling quite like the curious anticipation that seeps into your stomach and festers there before the other side of the line picks up.) SO, after fumbled interjections and spontaneous introductions, I realized that I was speaking to an LDS Casting representative and she realized that she was speaking to Sherilyn McGinnis, and said representative offered to schedule an audition for me for "The New Testament" film. Woo hoo! Thank heaven for my dark hair. Thusly, on Wendesday the 27th of October at precisely 5:05 pm, I will be in the Union Square Chapel auditioning for a young adult speaking role.

I might be in a movie! :) Now, I don't know what the chances are that I'll get a speaking part or even be an extra, but I'm excited to try out anyway. Like I've said before, it feels good just to be ambitious. And really, all thanks to Mom: she is always encouraging me to shoot for the stars! She was, in this instance, that little nudge that pushed me over the edge and persuaded me to submit my application. So thanks again, Mommy!

And whether or not I get to be a part of "The New Testament", I feel good about where I am and what I'm doing. I've decided that it really is the journey that counts; we all know this will all turn out for the best: the end really will be good. It is as the saying goes, "...if it's not good, it's not the end". So the Lord is with me, giving me comfort and peace because I am where I need to be. ...which leads to further excitement, of course, because I know that whatever I'll be doing in six months (filming? something else?), it is going to be amazing. And that's just how life is.

But...we'll keep our fingers crossed anyway. ;)

Love,

Sherilyn

Two down, 874 million to go...jk

2010-10-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

AND TODAY

I met Lisa from Celtic Woman!!!!

Hehehe.

I was at Dinosaur Park with Gavin for an after school playdate and I saw a girl who looked like Lisa Kelly, a singer from the group, Celtic Woman. She was there with her daughter and another lady and her two kids. I didn't talk to her until we were leaving the park, but how fortuitous it was that she left at the same time as we did. :) So I asked her if she sings in Celtic Woman, and she said she does, and she was very kind and actually kind of flattered that I recognized her. She asked where I was from and if I lived hereabouts, and she asked if I'd seen them in Colorado. Hehe, I was very happy to respond that I did at Red Rocks :) Kudos to Chris Sprague for the tickets a couple years ago! And Lisa said they were there again this summer and they're headed to Australia next. Totally cool!

That was about it- I didn't get it out that my last name is McGinnis and that I'm totally Irish, but that's ok :)

Hehehe, I'm still kind of giggly inside about meeting her.

Have a lovely day!

Coloraturas of love,

Sherilyn

Hehehe.

2010-10-07T14:07:00.000-07:00

SO,

I met Nick Arrojo.

Yes, the hairstylist from the TV Show, What Not to Wear.

In fact, I got my hair cut in his salon.

HIS salon.

That, in and of itself, is pretty cool.

AND THEN

I saw him, and he WINKED at me.

(He's Australian. That's why the wink. Yes, you can call me racist if you really want to.)

Then I got a complimentary facial, a head massage, and a cool robe to wear.

That was all pretty neat.

AND THEN

Nick Arrojo walked by me, got my attention by saying something,

and WINKED again.

at ME.

I was acknowledged by a FAMOUS person.

A REALLY COOL famous person.

Seriously, he's at the tippety-top of the hairstylist foodchain.

(Not that hairstylists eat each other....that would be weird.)

I know, you can call me superfacial (pun! hahaha!).

But he's my first New York Celeb sighting

(minus the guy who was in Inception and his stunt double-for the movie he's currently filming-but I haven't seen that movie yet, so that doesn't count)

and HE IS SO COOL anyway.

I wouldn't be this excited if it was say...Brad Pitt or something.

...Well, maybe I would. Never mind.

And then I saw his wife and his two kids- CUTE! He made sweet little baby noises to them. Who's ever seen a famous person do that? Ridiculously cute.

AND I got a super cute haircut!

I'm really bad at taking my own picture and I feel ridiculous asking other people to take a picture of me just for my hair. SO, if you want to see my hair, you should visit me in person sometime!

Don't worry. I kept most of the length and got a cut that I can grow out :)

And it was absolutely DIVINE to wash my hair this morning. Not ONE SINGLE TANGLE. *sigh* I'm sure that's what heaven is like.

And the girl I got my hair cut from, her name is Hilary, and she was pretty cool too. LOVE the cut. I've decided that when I come back to the city I'm getting a trim from her.

AND since I went with Emily, we got 50% off (bring a friend who's never been, you both get half price!). And Emily's hair is absolutely adorable! Love it.

Yep. Have a great day!

Locks of love, (pun! pun! pun!)

Sherilyn

Shoot for the stars....the movie stars :)

2010-10-04T21:18:00.000-07:00

So I've decided to go for an audition to be in the new LDS film, "The New Testament".

I'm excited. I'll keep you posted. I have no idea whether or not it will turn into anything. I'm just excited for the experience- the experience of whatever happens. And I'm loving the ambition. I feel like my life has been lacking in ambition lately. Sad. I'll have to think of more ambitious things to do.

Anyway, I wanted to let you all know, and post the two pictures I sent in. Don't laugh at them. I think they're good to send in because they're very VERY honest. Now you all know what I really look like :) hehe. Anyway, I ramble. They requested a head shot and a profile shot

I'll keep you posted!

Lots of DVD's and VHS's full of love,

Sherilyn

"Pea" by Rabbit! ...yes, the exclamation point is supposed to be there

2010-10-02T21:07:00.000-07:00

Alright, I just have to post this. It's on my facebook page too. It's the stinkin cutest song/video I've ever heard/seen in my life. Enjoy! :)

http://www.myspace.com/saverabbit/videos/video/102416715

.-.. --- ...- .,

... .... . .-. .. .-.. -.-- -.

P.S. Oh yeah, I learned Morse code. :)

Alright, I'm a vacuum when it comes to blogging Part II

2010-09-26T08:32:00.001-07:00

Alright, I'm a vacuum when it comes to blogging Part I

2010-09-26T07:51:00.000-07:00

Dearest personages viewing this poor, neglected, decrepit blog (sort of),

Sherilyn is good. In fact, she's marvelously wonderful.

Here are a few things she's been up to:

-Lots of trips to the beach/pools with Emily, Boyd, and the boys

-couple baptism trips to the temple :)

-Indiana Jones on the Intrepid (outside movie)

-a weekend in Boston with Loren and Erica and Sophie! :D

-Mozart Concert

-Hudsucker Proxy...hehe

-Museum of Natural History

-trip to NH and Maine with 10 other singles, Labor Day Weekend (lake house, kayaking, tubing, rope swing, old people's really cool garage sale, good food!, lobster, walk along the beach, road trip, good music, massages, s'mores, kebabs, company, etc. :) )

-Eli turned 3!

-Fantastic Mr. Fox

-INSTITUTE. Brother McConkie, the grandson of Bruce R. McConkie, I believe, is the teacher. He's amazing!

-Manhattan 8th Ward split into the Harlem 3rd ward and M8th ward- HUGE change. I go to the Harlem bldg now instead of the temple

-CES Fireside with Richard G. Scott. Love it.

-spoke in the Chinese Branch with Boyd

-utilizing Skype :)

-Chipotle

-Apple Picking!!! yum.

-"Through the Night" by Daniel Beaty. AMAZING performance. I cried.

-Hot chocolate weather!!!!!!!!!!!!

-Rock Band :) :) :)

-YSA Tri-State Conference (Connecticut, NY, and NJ)... met a West Point cadet. He's pretty cool.

-East Village! West Village! Bought two hats from a Lithuanian hat shop. They're adorable.

-Gelato at L'Arte del Gelato...arguably the best Gelato on the planet. Yes, including all of Italy

-Tag Football :)

-Co-Ed Singles Basketball after institute wednesday nights :D why didn't I do basketball in High School??? Oh right, I was in the musicals...

-S.A.L.S.A. yes, the dance, not the food

-Urban Outfitters

-Relief Society General Conference. Love love love. :)

Much love and adoration,

Sherilyn

Adventures

2010-07-25T13:25:00.000-07:00

The infamous list:

-went to the MOMA for free
-stake picnic at central park
-went swimming with Gavin, Eli, and Emily
-shopped a little at Banana Republic
-read Howards End in Central Park (several times)
-got some letters in the mail :D
-had many wonderfully insightful revelations
-went to Institute again :)
-went to FHE
-got a limited use temple recommend today! yay!
-going to do baptisms this thursday at the manhattan temple
-going to Harmony, PA this saturday for an Institute field trip! woo hoo!
-going to see shakespeare in the park- Winter's Tale -on Tuesday (hopefully we get tickets! we're standing in line at midnight!)
-going to FHE
-having lots of fun taking care of adorable little kids!

I love and miss you all! More to come later!

Sherilyn

Here's a green leaf

Sorry so late!

2010-07-20T19:13:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends and Family!

I'm too loquacious at times...at lots of times, so I'm going to make a list instead. (I seem to be doing that a lot on here, if you're not a list-person, sorry about that)

-5 on BC Calculus!
-4 on the oral part of Music Theory!
-4 on English!
-I SAW THE SHANGHAI PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA PLAY GERSHWINS RHAPSODY IN BLUE WITH LANG LANG (the yo-yo ma of pianos) ON THE STEINWAY IN CENTRAL PARK (we had fabulous seats pretty close to the front and right in the center!). It was the best thing ever.
-I got my makeup done in Bergdorf Goodman, the millionaire fashionista's walmart
-I saw the world's largest diamond in Tiffany & Co. and ogled at all the other jewelry, of course
-I saw the world's largest Gummy Bear in FAO Schwartz Toy Store
-I talked to my Mommy on the phone :)
-I ate Chipotle
-I saw Toy Story 3 with Boyd, Emily, Gavin, and Eli! I recommend it highly!
-I went to the Metropolitan Opera Recital in Central Park- Lovely!!!
-I went to the Metropolitan Museum of Art a couple of times- loved it :)
-I absolutely loved church the past two weeks
-OCEAN CITY :)
-I went to Institute this past wednesday
-met some cool people at YSA FHE
-I'm still the youngest person in the Singles ward. I feel like a younger sibling. Hm, I wonder why that is.
-life is good
-I miss you all

Love, Sherilyn

Here are some photos. Enjoy! (sorry some are sideways :) I'm too lazy to change them. but hey, if you can read my sideways smileys, then you can read my sideways photos)

Halloooo

2010-07-01T12:12:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

I need to upload some photos, but I'll do that when I get my laptop...OH WAIT, I just got it. :D I'll go set it up and finish this later....

Love,
Sherilyn

A Fantastic Talk

2010-06-24T02:58:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to a fantastic talk given by President Benson in the October 1987 general conference. It was applicable then. It is even more applicable now. I invite you all to read and ponder it!

Ezra Taft Benson, “Our Divine Constitution,” Ensign, Nov 1987, 4

Quote for the Day

2010-06-24T02:38:00.001-07:00

I was reading the First Presidency Message from the 1942 Conference Report this morning and came across the following council which is as applicable today as it was then.

"False Political Isms

We again warn our people in America of the constantly increasing threat against our inspired Constitution and our free institutions set up under it. The same political tenets and philosophies that have brought war and terror in other parts of the world are at work amongst us in America. The proponents thereof are seeking to undermine our own form of government and to set up instead one of the forms of dictatorships now flourishing in other lands. These revolutionists are using a technique that is as old as the human race—a fervid but false solicitude for the unfortunate over whom they thus gain mastery and then enslave them.

They suit their approaches to the particular group they seek to deceive. Among the Latter-day Saints they speak of their philosophy and their plans under it as an ushering in of the United Order. Communism and all other similar isms bear no relationship whatever to the United Order. They are merely the clumsy counterfeits which Satan always devises of the gospel plan. Communism debases the individual and makes him the enslaved tool of the state to whom he must look for sustenance and religion; the United Order exalts the individual, leaves him his property, "according to his family, according to his circumstances and his wants and needs," (D&C 51:3) and provides a system by which he helps care for his less fortunate brethren; the United Order leaves every man free to choose his own religion as his conscience directs. Communism destroys man's God-given free agency; the United Order glorifies it. Latter-day Saints can not be true to their faith and lend aid, encouragement, or sympathy to any of these false philosophies. They will prove snares to their feet."

A message from the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered in the Assembly Hall on Temple Square, Salt Lake City, Utah, Monday, April 6, 1942, during the closing session of the 112th Annual General Conference of the Church. The message was published in Conference Report, Apr. 1942, 88-97.

Just a little note to say I love you

2010-06-09T12:03:00.001-07:00

Dear family,
I love you. Every one of you. A LOT. and that's a colossal understatement.

Love,
Sherilyn

Dear everyone else who reads this blog- mainly awesome people like Michele Sobek and Mommy Beals (and you other wonderful people who read this anonymously),
I love you, too.
Love,
Sherilyn

Eensy teensy update

2010-05-31T18:39:00.000-07:00

Hello dearest family and friends!
First of all, just a little reminder that I love you all IMMENSELY, and I am so eternally grateful to be a part of your family or be one of your friends!
Secondly, I'd like to just write a little update. I am now in West Virginia- quite the interesting place, to say the least- enjoying the fireflies and the butterflies and the flowers and especially the cockroaches and the ticks! Delightful place. Nah, it's all good! I love spending time with my dear dear family- it makes me miss the rest of you so VERY much!
So I'll be off to NYC in a couple of weeks or so- I don't really know when, partially due to the fact that without school, time seems to mush together into one big mess, and I don't even know what day it is most of the time. :)
Oh well. Anyway, I think I'm going to head off to bed. SO I'll update more at a future time.
I love you all!!!

Love,
Sherilyn

Apparently I'm the only one in my family with exciting news...well, that's ok I guess...

2010-05-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

UPDATE! :D hehehe...hehe....HEHEHEHEHEHE!!!!

Well, I am going to BYU-ID for the Winter and Spring term, though it is possible for me to switch to the fall/winter term if I call them. ..I'm kind of in the swing of taking the cards that are handed to me, so I guess I'll just stick with that :) But we'll see.
AND
...
drumroll!!!!
...
I get full tuition and $250 in books for the first two semesters :D yay! It's the Thomas E. Ricks Scholarship- the "most prestigious award BYU-ID offers"! cool.
So anyway, this is cool.

Love,
Sherilyn

Just a few notable accomplishments

2010-05-16T20:36:00.000-07:00

I seem to be liking lists, so here we go again:

1. I graduated from seminary Sunday evening. Who would have thought 4 years could go by in about 2 seconds?
2. Letter Award in Choir
3. Letter Award in Drama
4. Letter Award in Academics
5. Citizenship Award
6. Senior Leadership in Choir Award
7. I get to wear cool National Honor Society cords at Graduation on Saturday. I know, totally cool!
TO BE CONTINUED

Well, folks, this is weird.

2010-05-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

1. My last day of High School EVER was yesterday.
2. I graduate from High School a WEEK from today.
3. My last day of High School EVER was yesterday.
4. We're moving to West Virginia a week from Monday.
5. I still have to pack my whole room.
6. NO MORE calc homework!
7. AP tests ACTUALLY went really well...at least better than I thought they would.
8. My last day of High School EVER was YESTERDAY.
9. I'm going to college.
10. I'm going to college at a BYU.
11. in Idaho
12. My last day of SEMINARY (you thought I was going to say "High School"! hahaha!) was YESTERDAY
13. I'm spending the bulk of my summer in NYC (WOOO HOOOOO!)
14. My last day of High School E.V.E.R. was YESTERDAY!!!
15. I actually ate MILK chocolate after school yesterday to make myself feel better about missing people. WEIRD.
16. My last time of going with the youth in Colorado to World Vision was this morning
17. My piano is gone :(
18. MY LAST DAY OF HIGH SCHOOL EVER WAS YESTERDAY
19. I'm actually leaving Colorado...for good...in a week.
20. I'm getting OLD.

Love,
Sherilyn

Long Awaited This, That, and the Other

2010-05-01T22:10:00.000-07:00

Well, folks, lots to talk about, so I'll make a list :)

1. DU is too expensive
2. BYU, here I come. Now I have to decide between ID and Provo...will probably depend on scholarships, which I still have to hear about (oh, and I still have to hear from Provo at all, actually).
3. The Lord has a very clever way of making me eat humble pie.
4. I graduate May 22, 2010 at the Buell Theater in Denver, 9am- no reserved seating, so come if you can!
5. My dance theater/studio has a show, Once Upon a Leprechaun that opens this weekend (shows are May 7, 8, 21, and 22-the night of my graduation-day) and I am a LEAD in it, so you should come to that too, if you can :) Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults. It is absolutely kid-friendly, and it starts at 7pm, and I can give you directions if you call me :)
6. School is good- I have AP tests on May 5, 6, and 10, so please pray for me...I'm really nervous.
7. I just did a Melodrama, I was the heroine, with my Improv troupe, and it was really, really fun. I recommend doing Melodramas. Good for the health. It was called The Great Ice Cream Scheme, or Robin Baskins to the Rescue! We got to eat ice cream...during the show. VERY good for the health :) yum.
8. I like school except for my creative writing class- no, not the creative writing part, just the class. I'm working on that, don't worry.
9. 29.5 months until I can put my papers in!
AND
10. I love you all! Have a happy day!

College Update

2010-03-14T14:10:00.000-07:00

Well, here's the list so far- 3 rejects, one acceptance, 3 to go.
Yale- no
Lamont School of Music- no
MIT- no
DU -yes, with 12,000 in scholarships not including financial aid
Harvard- idk
Connecticut College- idk
University of Chicago- idk
yep. I'll fill you in when I know more!

Love,
Sherilyn

P.S. I am the heroine (not the plant) in the school Melodrama :D I'm excited! So if you happen to be in Colorado on April 9th or 10th, come watch me! Tickets are probably about 3 dollars, plus you get a meal, and a short improv show before the Melodrama- lots of fun! And it's general admission, and you should come. :) I LOVE YOU ALL!

Read me! :)

2010-03-03T18:39:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone! Twice in one week- that's a record!
Anyway, I found this movie-rating site that is really reliable, and I was telling Mom about it, and she said, "Well, gee, you should tell all your siblings about this!" SO that's what I'm doing :)
The cite is http://www.kids-in-mind.com/. Just type in a movie title in the search box, and you get a detailed run-down of the whole movie- the site lists pretty much anything you could worry about being in a movie. So, if you're ever questioning whether it's a good movie to see on a date or with the kids, just visit kidsinmind.com, and you're good to go! Yep.

I LOVE YOU ALL!

Sherilyn

La-dee da, la-dee dum, la-de do-de-do-de-do

2010-02-27T21:09:00.001-08:00

Well, since no one posts on here anymore :) I guess I'll write a little something.
It's a saturday night, and I am sitting here on the computer, wasting my time, and I figure, well, I might as well blog about how my life is so...you can pick the adjective. My life is pretty much everything at some point or another.
Anyway, I had my DU Lamont School of Music Audition today- DU is kind of my last choice as far as colleges go, and so I'm forcing myself not to stress too much about it. I've been sick with a cold the past couple of weeks, so I am very grateful I was able to sing today- I messed up more than I would like to have, but it's alright. The faculty was nice and I don't think they really cared too much (about me messing up, I mean). Yep. And March is coming...hopefully I'll be able to give you guys all a call and let you know where I'm accepted and whatnot. I have absolutely no idea what to expect, so if you all could just keep a prayer in your hearts that the Lord's will will be done, then everything will turn out right :)
And such is life. This week in school is the state testing, which means I, as a senior :), don't have to show up to school until 11AM. It's a lovely thing. Pretty much the best two weeks of the school-year- at least it's in the top. So anyway, All-State 2010 was pretty much amazing, so sorry I didn't post all my excitement when I found out I got in- it was the day I got blood drawn for the Blood Drive, and I think I was a bit tired. I walked into choir late and everyone cheered when I came through the door. I had no idea what was going on. My friend Cassie and I were the only two who got in. There should have been more, but not very many people tried out. So anyway, it was a great experience :D. ♪♫♪♫♪♪♫
Musical was really great this year too- I'll miss that next year, for sure.
Other than that, I'm 18, about to graduate, happy, in limbo, spontaneous, wanna-be-comedian, excited, sitting, breathing, giggling inside, missing family, dreaming, sleeping, waking, walking, loquacious, satisfied culinarily, awesome, alive, and pretty much anything you feel like adding.
Yep. I LOVE YOU ALL and I am SUPER excited about our New Jersey plans this summer!!!!!!!!

Love,
Sherilyn
Mook
Bitsy
Mud Fence
Sherilynee
Little Sister
Leetle Seester
Caboose
Tail
Last of the Mchicans
Top o' the food chain
Bottom o' the food chain
Aunt Sherilyn
Incoherent Goofball
Et Cetera
Monkey face
Cream of the...I mean, Crop of the Cream
The Bestest Best Littlest Sister in the World
Me

Great are the Lord's Mercies.

2010-01-10T12:43:00.000-08:00

It has been quite a while since I've written anything here. I hope this note finds you all doing well.

2009 was a year of many miracles for our family. The Lord has blessed us in so many ways I can't begin to name them all, but I would like to publish a few.

First, he opened up the way for me to find a new job. There were several times I thought I had a job lined up only to have the rug pulled out from under my my feet. Still, as I kept seeking and praying, the Lord brought us to West Virginia, which is where He wants us to be. At the beginning of the year last year, West Virginia wasn't even on the radar. The Lord has a way of making us change our priorities. The ward here needs us and we've already been put to work--me as the Sunbeam's teacher, and Kimberly as the Ward Music Chairman and as a Relief Society Teacher.

Second, many illnesses have been mitigated through prayer and the power of the priesthood. As Kimberly and the Children traveled back to the stated from England, Joseph was very ill and having a hard time breathing. However, Kimberly forgot to pull his inhaler from the luggage after they reached Chicago. She was very distraught and called Mom McGinnis who in turn called me (I was still in England). I then called several of my family members as well as members of our Harrogate ward and asked them to please pray for Kimberly to be guided what to do, for little Joseph to hang on, and for someone with the power of the priesthood to come along who would be able to give Joseph a blessing. The Lord heard our prayers and answered them all.

As Kimberly got off the phone, almost immediately people around her began to offer help. One lady offered her to use the an inhaler she had which turned out to be exactly like Joseph's. Kimberly thanked woman for her for her kindness but then explained that she wasn't sure Joseph would be able to use it as we normally attached a mask with an introduction tube to his inhaler to make it easier for him to get the effects. A man nearby then piped up saying he was a doctor and suggested she go and retrieve a paper cup that they could improvise to use as a mask.

The medicine was soon administered and Joseph began to breath easier. Kimberly then prayed in her heart for someone with Priesthood authority to come along who could administer a blessing to him. I was on my knees (we later determined) at about the same time asking for the same thing. Moments later Kimberly looked up and saw one of the most beautiful sights she had see on the entire trip, a missionary name tag attached to an elder who was just returning from Belgium. She called out to him saying "Elder, could you please come and give my boy a blessing. He's very ill." The Elder, along with his father, came an gave Joseph a blessing. Needless to say, he and Kimberly, as well as the other children, made it to Denver and all was well.

Third, the Lord has blessed us to find a good home in a good ward. I have a good job, which in these difficult economic and political times, is a marvelous blessing. How great are the tender mercies of the Lord. I know He lives. I know He hears and answers prayers and the power of the priesthood is real.

We had a wonderful Christmas and Happy new year, and hope you all did too!

Here are some pictures of the home as well as the family. We love you all.

Our new home in October - Front/Side view.

Backyard

A view from the balcony - Looking down the road.

Winter is upon us!

Winter wonderland!

The Magnificent McNeely's - re-enacting the birth of Jesus

SIZZLIN' JULY!

2009-07-05T18:25:00.000-07:00

Actually, we haven't had that much heat yet--we continue to get rain quite regularly and everything is still beautiful & green. I've been running the AC for the last two weeks trying to keep the house cool enough to work. With the rain everyday, the humidity has been high at times--something I'm not at all used to. So when I'm painting the AC goes on when the temperature reaches 73 degrees in the house! It's the only way I can keep going. And the fans run all the time, night and day.

Just to let you all know--Loren blessed little Sophie today! He said everything went well even when she began squirming. That didn't bother him much, because he was fully concentrating on what he wanted to say. Good for you Loren! We're all so happy for you, Erica, and Sophie! Having the Melchizedek Priesthood in our homes is such a blessing. And having a husband/father who always stands worthy and ready to bless his family is an equally wonderful blessing! I've been without a priesthood holder in my home most of my adult life--you older children remember how we were fortunate to be close to Grandpa Schenk, Uncle Glenn, & Uncle Kim through some of those years. And we also relied on our home teachers. The years that we spent with Dad, we could always depend on him anytime we needed a blessing. I told him often how much I appreciated the fact that he was always willing and ready to use the Priesthood on our behalf. I'm thankful to have Joel close and to know that he is always ready to help me and Sherilyn. We also call on our Home Teacher often for blessings.

Loren and Erica have set a date for their Sealing in the Bountiful Temple--August 18th. I am so happy and excited that they have made this a priority in their lives! I am so proud of both of you! It will be a glorious occasion to see you and little Sophie sealed together for all eternity!

There are many difficulties and challenges that we each face in our lives. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed when I deal with my own package of problems; and even more overwhelmed when I learn of yours. I've learned through my life as well as through the experiences of others including Father's children in the scriptures, that adversity is a necessary fact of this mortality. It's one of the reasons we are here--to have experiences that will give us an opportunity to walk by faith and to test our obedience. And I've learned something more about faith the last few years than I knew before: it's in those moments when we are most tested--in the greatest pain--when our doubts are greater than ever--that faith is the most necessary and seems to count the greatest. When everything seems to combine against us and hedge-up our way and the "world" is doing it's best to convince us that our prayers are unheard and even if they're heard, no One cares much about us---THEN is when having faith will make the most difference: Faith that Father DOES hear our prayers, that he DOES love us and wants to help us, and that all will be well.

I have some important tools that I use when life looks a bit dark and frightening: (1)I've learned to get to my knees pretty quick; (2)I find comfort and encouragement in the scriptures; (3)I sometimes ask for a Priesthood blessing; (4)I go to the temple where I can put things into perspective better, as well as do service for someone else; (5)I try to turn the focus away from myself and toward others in my home, ward or anywhere; and certainly not least (6)I exercise my faith especially in those moments it all seems most impossible. And I guess at that point (7)patience is a necessary thing. I've seen so many miracles occur; and I'm convinced that they will continue to occur. I truly stand amazed that my Savior and my Father love me! My prayers are answered! My needs are met! All is well!

I pray for each of you daily: Seth, Kimberly, Randy, Emma, Camilla, Rebekah, & Joseph, Boyd, Emily, Gavin & Eli, Joel, Coryn, JJ, Jensyn & Lincoln, Mollie, Loren, Erica & Sophie, Sherilyn. You are each so dear and precious to me; and I pray that you can withstand the temptations and difficulties that you face. May your faith be strong. May you trust in our Heavenly Father's love and care.

Randy's birthday is this month! On the 28th! Happy Birthday Randy! I love you and am thankful that you joined our family almost 14 years ago. I appreciate your enthusiasm and great efforts for preserving freedom and righteousness in this great land. I hope you have a wonderful birthday!

Love you all!

Mom

Raising the Academic Bar a wee bit

2009-07-02T12:05:00.001-07:00

Hello, wonderful family of mine!

I just wanted to put a little note on here, because, frankly, I am too big for my britches at the moment- I am quite pleased with myself- and I wanted to share it with you.
I took the ACT again just about a month ago, and I got the scores this past Monday. I got a 31! I know that's not the best in the world, but it feels so much better- so much more like myself- than that yucky 28 I scored back in April. It now seems feasible to my occasionally faithless mind that I can get into Yale for fall 2010. And, because I am probably ambitious to a fault, and rather determined, I think I might take it again...and see if I can get it a little bit better. :)

I love you all!

lil sister

A Quick Update

2009-06-25T13:26:00.000-07:00

It's great to hear from and see you in your posts! I know I'm rotten about keeping up with you, but I'll keep trying as I can. Sometimes I feel like I run from thing to thing the entire day, with no room to cram in anything else.

We finished are home school work for the summer this week, so we are enjoying a little break. Hooray! Now I'm busily planning history and science for the fall. It would be easier to just purchase a curriculum and stick with it, but I get annoyed with other people's quirks and want to do things my way, so here I am giving myself more work.

Emma is enjoying her new violin very much. The sound is exquisite. She tried about six different instruments before she decided on this one. It looks hardly used, but it was made in Bohemia about 1890, and has the quality she was looking for. Now I hope we can get it back to the US without damage. Meanwhile, Emma is preparing for another major exam, this time a grade 7 level that includes theory, aural, sight-reading, and performance components. We have been working like crazy to try to bring her up to speed identifying chords, cadences and modulations, as well as listening to musical excerpts and answering questions about form, period, articulation, and expression. This is hard stuff. I keep thinking she really has guts to see it through. Anyhow, the exam is on July 7th, and we are really hoping she will pass. The world won't end if she doesn't of course, but it would be a nice feather in her cap and good prep for college.

Camilla has started riding lessons again and really loves them. She gets to groom and and prepare the horse first, so she gets a taste of what caring for a horse is like. Her favorite part is jumping, which she describes as "soaring" through the air. I try not to worry about her getting hurt, but I'm afraid she has fallen off once, so now I'm uneasy.

Both Camilla and Rebekah are doing swimming lessons right now in the evenings. Camilla just moved up a class and has started diving a little--I'm so pleased at how she has progressed lately. Her determination has payed off and she is overcoming her fears bit by bit. Rebekah is too, at last. The little girl who wouldn't let go of her teacher or put her face in the water has finally started to move through the water on her own a little and jump in of her own volition. We all went swimming for family night on Monday, and I didn't have to hold her even once.

Joseph is just busy as usual, though perhaps it is more with toys now than with messes of other sorts. Thank heavens! He continues to love trains, so I purchased a small wooden set this week. He cannot leave the house or go to bed without dragging his little train along. Unfortunately, he gets so frustrated if he can't put it together on his own, that he threw the pieces today and broke one. Aarghh! On the happier side, however, he has decided kisses are great and loves to cover our faces and heads with them.

Randy keeps going to work everyday, returns home just in time to rescue the family from a frustrated mom, and continues to search for a new job. We are hopeful that something will come through soon.

Okay, bedtime for Cinderella.

I love you all.

Kimberly

I'm employed!!!!

2009-06-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

Hiya everyone!

I got hired on the spot during my interview at Granny Scott's Pie Shop this past week! I start work on Tuesday, and I hope to be able to keep the job until college next fall (WOW, it's weird to use the words "college" and "next fall" in the same sentence! Eeek!) Anyway, pay starts at minimum wage- 7.26/hr -which isn't too bad for me, and it will go up the longer I work there. One of my good friends from church is working there too, so I am excited to start!

I'm also taking tap classes this summer in preparation for this coming year's musical...........*drumroll*.............42nd Street! I am really hyped for that too; tapping is SO much fun! Randy Souza is our choreographer again, and he is FABULOUS. He's a great teacher, and he is really knowlegdable about everything he does. He has his own theatre down Wadsworth (not too far away from where we are) called Gotta Dance! Gotta Sing! Theatre. That's where I'm taking the classes this summer. Randy worked with Disney for a long time, simultaneously performing all over New York and California, and he's been a "professional" dancer in ballet, jazz, tap, and ballroom since he was 6. Crazy! Anyway, it's great working with him, and it's a heck of a lot of fun!

As for the rest of my summer, I'm helping Mom repaint the interior of our house, and I'm trying to keep up with all the college prep stuff I have to have done before Thanksgiving! I took the ACT again (but this time with writing) this past saturday, and I am gald to have it behind me!

I look forward to seeing you all sometime!! I sure miss everyone! I love you!!!

Love,

Sherilyn

lazily dream

2009-06-09T21:10:00.000-07:00

Oh What do I do in the summer time?

Lazily dream on the banks as the clouds roll by...

Finally, we meet

2009-06-09T20:59:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to meet little Sophie a few weeks ago. I am pretty sure I am her new favorite Aunt. haha. It was great to see Loren and Erica too. Sophie is so beautiful.

Oh, What Do You Do in the Summertime?

2009-06-03T07:18:00.000-07:00

June is the time all the children look forward to: school's out, no homework, no "teacher's dirty looks," Elitch's and Water World are open, lots of fun in the sun, etc and etc. I remember those days as a child and I was definitely happy school was out; but it was also the beginning of the real work.

Our family didn't have playdays and outings much. We looked forward to July 4th when we went to the parade in Soda Springs, then usually rushed home so Dad could continue mowing or baling the hay in the fields. Many times Dad wouldn't go to the parade with us but would stay and work. If I was lucky then the "stacking" wouldn't begin for another week. The evening of July 4th was even better than the parade: we traveled to Lava Hot Springs, sometimes enjoyed getting in the old "State Natatorium" or the "Hot Pots" (the steaming hot baths), and watched in awe while the fireworks were set-off atop the mountain towering over the little town. Sometimes the ash rained down on us. The grand finale was a breathtaking "waterfall" tumbling over the cliffs at the very top of the mountain; and many times the mountainside was set ablaze, adding another dimension of excitement to the occasion.

Another occasion that we kids always looked forward to was July 24th celebrations--Pioneer Day. It was the biggest day of the year for Bancroft; and everyone came out in their summer best. Dad usually declared this day a holiday but was still up early. He always cooked for the Lion's breakfast--I remember him flipping pancakes, but he probably did other things too. One of the best breakfasts of the whole year! The parade was always great too--we children were quite often riding our beautifully decorated bikes; pulling our covered wagons and wearing pioneer dress; riding on one of the floats or marching in the marching corps. There was always a program at the church after the parade. The Daughters of the Utah Pioneers were in charge, which meant Mother quite often was on the program. That also meant that we kids were often on the program too. It was always a great tribute to our pioneer heritage; but I remember when we were little, it was so hard to sit through the talks--there was so much excitement awaiting us at the park and down in the business section of town. Then the rodeo at 2 pm. Sometimes we went, sometimes we didn't. We always had a wonderful dinner at home in the afternoon: fried chicken, rolls, watermelon, potato salad and wonderful desserts and treats. We often had company too: Aunt Louna and Uncle Harold joined us for most of these summer celebrations; older siblings and their families, sometimes other aunts and uncles from farther away.

Another gathering that we looked forward to was the Samuel Schenk Family Reunion which included Dad's brothers, sisters, cousins, and distant cousins. The reunion was often held in Lava Hot Springs or at Downata Resort close to Downey; and of course swimming was always involved in those locations. So many of the relations were distant enough that this was the only time I ever saw them. Also many of the faces were different from year to year, so I never got to know most of them. Only the closer relations were familiar. That didn't stop us kids from having a great time--there were always enough kids in our own family.

And beyond those three days, my summer took the form of work, work, work. I helped with the gardening, weeding, mowing, watering. I helped with the animals, bringing the cows down from the hills to be milked, herding them in and out of the barn; helped with the milking--to a point: I was always afraid of the cows--I was taught to "strip" the milk from the cows to give to the cats but I never did a very good job of it. We girls were sent to take fresh cold water or milk to the men in the fields; and then to help take dinner to them if they were so anxious to finish their work that they couldn't come home to eat. In the afternoons we would also take a snack of some kind to them along with more drink. I also spent a lot of my day helping Mom fix meals and bake goodies to satisfy the working men. Then came the harvesting as the garden grew, picking, digging, pulling, then shelling, cleaning, scrubbing, then all the steps to canning and freezing, or simply storing in the cellar.

Moving the water pipe was probably my least favorite job ever. Not only did we have to move around the clock every four hours sometimes, but the huge rubber gloves made my hands stink, I got muddy and dirty, and it was hard work, especially when I couldn't get the pipe to lock together correctly causing an explosion when we turned the water up! Many a time when we finally got the line working, my sister and I left the fields crying in frustration and feeling sorry for ourselves. I didn't like the haying much either. I guess I was about 10-12 when I began to buck the heavy bales around. That was really hard work!

But, you know, I knew that's what we did, and even though I probably did my share of complaining, that was my life and I didn't mind that much. We found ways to have fun while we worked and I certainly learned how to feel that satisfaction of a job well done! We kids were usually allowed some time after lunch when we could do what we wanted for a little while. That's a story for another time!

I guess that's why I always felt my own children should have responsibilities around the house since we didn't have cows to milk or fields to plow. Learning to work and to take responsibility for one's duties is a good thing; and I think you are all better parents and providers because of that!

I'm also pleased when I see those of you with children teaching them to work--even the very young ones can have little chores. Children look at helping as great fun when they're only 3 to 5 years old! Developing talents and learning good skills is also an extremely great use of time for young ones.

My grandchildren are the most beautiful, talented and intelligent children in the world! Just ask me. They are such a precious gift to you parents and to me as grandparent. I've felt impressed recently to caution all of you about their safety. Even at the grocery store, the park, anywhere you go--be ever watchful and aware of possible dangers. There are many childless people out there who are desperate and will risk anything to have a child. Then there are those who abduct with terrible intentions. The numbers are up and climb every year. Please don't let these young ones out of your sight except when you know they are in the care of someone else who won't let them out of their sight. I love them so much!

Speaking of grandchildren---

GAVIN has a birthday this month! He will turn 4 on the 28th. Happy Birthday little guy! We all love you!

Another event that I can tell you about is Loren, Erica, and Sophie's visit to Colorado this month. I'm not sure what date they are arriving, but they will be here the weekend of the 21st. Yayyyy! We're excited! We should have a picnic or cookout--what say you?

This mom and grandma loves you all so much!

My loss of wisdom

2009-05-31T22:22:00.000-07:00

Yep. I lost all possible streaks of wisdom that I might ever have had this past thursday at 10:30 in the morning. And my face shows it, which is why I'm not posting any pictures :D
Everything went well with the extraction of all four wisdom teeth (in case anyone didn't pick up the over-used and no longer funny joke penned above). And I am so ready to not drink anymore slim fast or fruit smoothies...or rather I'm just very ready to be able to chew things again, because those fruit drinks are really yummy. Anyway, I thought I would let you all know, since this is such a monumental point in my life. Though, somehow, I don't really feel like I used much wisdom when I still had the teeth.... Maybe that's the problem with the world today: people never have their wisdom teeth long enough to do any good anymore, because when they do have their wisdom teeth, they're too young to do anything about it. I don't know.
Anyway, I love you all, and I hope all is well or very soon will be with all of my dear family members.

Love,
Sherilyn

MAY the force be with you!

2009-05-01T06:19:00.000-07:00

The lovely month of May is upon us! April brought us much needed moisture in the form of our largest snowstorm of the season and soaking rains. I am grateful! And now May begins with the promise of rain for several days--again, I'm grateful!

MAY'S HAPPENINGS:

3rd - Loren's Birthday, #20
10th - Kimberly's Birthday
Mother's Day
13th - Grandma Louise Nelson's Birthday
16th - Joel Jr.'s Birthday #6

Happy Birthday everyone! I love you!

Other happenings that I know of are the McNeely's trip into Europe; Loren's family traveling to Hawaii with Erica's parents; school's out for Sherilyn on the 27th; and Sherilyn's wisdom teeth out on the 28th! Let me know if there's something else I should post here. It's always frightening to begin listing things because I know I will forget something important.

One thing I learned yesterday from Emma was that she participated in a violin competition last week and received a very high rating! Good for you, Emma! Please post here and fill in all the details for everyone. She also has a new violin that she seems very pleased with.

Since I would be in NYC during Seth's birthday, Sherilyn and I met Seth at Grandma's on Saturday the 18th of April, to have a birthday celebration for him. Grandma baked a cake, I forgot the ice cream, and we had a good time visiting and giving gifts. We love you Seth!

I had a wonderful time on my trip to visit Boyd, Emily & boys. It's a good thing that I've been doing some walking over the last two years, otherwise I don't think I could have managed all the walking we did that week. Emily is such a good cook! She fixed wonderful food and they both took good care of me. We saw South Pacific Thursday night! I really enjoyed that--it was so great to see another wonderful live musical! The last time was with Boyd before he was married when I visited him for Thanksgiving and we saw Les Mis and Phantom. It was good for me to see how they get around the city with two little boys, and to see all the great things there are to do and see there. Now when I think about them, I can see their apartment and the bustle of activity there; and I won't worry so much about their safety when they have their excursions into the city life.

This is the first time I've been able to really spend time with Eli and get to know him. I spent some great one-on-one time with him and with Gavin. Some of the things I'll remember most were: harmonizing with Boyd when he sang to the little boys at bedtime; watching Gavin buzz around on his scooter (he's quite the show-off!); Eli terrorizing the ducks in the park and trying to get into the lake (No Fear!); getting to celebrate Boyd's birthday with him for the first time in many years; eating pizza and ice cream in Brooklyn; and seeing the amazing flower displays throughout the city--daffodils, tulips, violets, cherry blossoms ready to burst into bloom, and so many lovely springtime blooms! I look forward to the next visit to NYC.

Love you all! Here are a few pictures of my trip.

Grandma Miggy pushing Gavin in the swing.

Gavin on his trusty sturdy steed in Central Park.

Grandma Miggy and the skyline.

Eli under the cherry blossoms.

Pat & Kem Nixon visiting us.

Boyd's new toy for his birthday.

Prom 2009: Once Upon A Dream

2009-04-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!
D'Evelyn's Prom was last night- it was lots of fun. Coryn did my hair and makeup and took pictures. I think getting ready is my favorite part :)
Thank you Corynee!

New York, New York!

2009-04-19T20:12:00.000-07:00

Well, apparently I'm supposed to blog about my awesome trip to see Boyd and Emily and family in New York- I'm sort of in the blogging mode, and I have a couple minutes--finally!--so I'll make an attempt.

First of all, it was incredible! I love New York!!!! I want to visit there ALL THE TIME. That would be awesome. SO I've decided that I'm going to live in New Haven, go to Yale, and then visit Boyd and Emily in Manhattan on weekends! :)
Anyway, as far as my trip, Boyd and Emily were incredibly gracious hosts and continually went way out of their way to make sure that I did everything I wanted to do and that I had a fabulous time! We all went to Brooklyn and ate pizza (THE BEST pizza in the world!) and I had my first root beer in 5 years (hahaha...) and we ate ice cream and then walked over the Brooklyn Bridge and such. Then Emily took me to see Phantom of the Opera in this AWESOME theater on Broadway and 44th-ish I think, and the same night we walked a little around Time Square and bought chocolate at the Hershey's store! Then we took a trip to New Haven and Boston and saw Yale and Harvard- and for those of you dying to know, Yale won my heart- all the way- sorry, Loren. Then Boyd and I went on a lovely bike-ride along the Hudson, and the next day I went to Manhattan School of Music ALL BY MYSELF :) and I was proud of that. And Emily took me to China Town, and to 5th Avenue, and to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and to Central Park, and lots of other places, and it was just so much fun! Then, on Wednesday night, Boyd took me to the Metropolitan Opera!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And we saw Verdi's Rigoletto, which I LOVE. And that was amazing- I've decided I'm going to sing on that stage someday.
And amongst all of these AWESOME things, I got to spend some quality time with my wonderful, handsome, little nephews who I miss SO MUCH. And that was a REAL treat!
And so Boyd and Emily and I watched a bunch of movies and Emily and I got a manicure and pedicure (I got the pedi, Em got the mani), and Boyd and I went out and got ice cream and red licorice (only Twizzler's of course, yum!), and it was all just lovely! :D

So I think I got everything. Here's some pics to prove it:

Well, there you have it. I love you all soooooooo much!!!

Sherilyn

p.s. Boyd has a bunch of other pictures :) hehehe.

Birthday Surprise

2009-04-04T18:52:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a surprise I got for my birthday today! I know it was a day early--so much the better and the fun continues until Monday morning the 6th!

The 2nd session of Conference was about to begin today and I was waiting for Sherilyn to return from some mysterious birthday run that Loren had put her up to when he called last night. She got here barely in time for the session; and she was no sooner in the house than the doorbell rang. I didn't hurry to answer it because I was headed to the kitchen with something in my hands and I thought Sherilyn would get it. I looked out the kitchen window and couldn't see anyone, and when Sherilyn hadn't moved from her seat at the computer, I went to the door. And what to my surprise--I found a wee baby in a car seat with a note attached.

I was so excited to see the baby that I ignored the note and went right for--Little Sophie! With Mommy & Daddy hiding in the garage! I couldn't believe my eyes--How was it possible? That's where Sherilyn had gone--to the airport! They had all flown to be with me for my birthday! Can you imagine my delight? I guess many of you have been keeping secrets from me all week long but that's ok considering how wonderful it is to have them here.

I carried Sophie into the house, and now I looked at the note: Surprise! Here's a birthday cupcake for Grandma! Can you see the cupcake hat on her head? Adorable!
I've had wonderful birthday surprises in my life, but I can't think of any that would beat this surprise! Sophie is so sweet and she's grown so much since I spent a week with her in January. She's full of precious smiles; and once in awhile we can get her to laugh. She's a healthy happy little girl! And Loren & Erica look wonderful too! I'm so glad the weather didn't prevent their flight from coming in this morning.

Look at Sophie's little ballerina socks!

And Loren had to try it! I'm sure Grandpa is smiling!

Well, April is off to a wonderful beginning. Here's our calendar for the month:

5th - MY birthday #60! No point denying it--it's quite apparent.
23rd - Seth's birthday
24th - Boyd's birthday
(Loren's birthday comes up pretty early in May and since I might be late posting, you all need to know that it's on the 3rd.)

Happy Birthday everyone! I always felt that April was a good time for a birthday!

Sherilyn needs to post about her trip to NYC. I'm glad to have her home safely. I was afraid she'd have a hard time coming back to reality after such an exciting week, but now I know she has really been looking forward to our surprise visit today.

I love you all. Hoping that you get to see conference this weekend and receive our semi-annual spiritual boost.

Love,

Mom

MARCH: Lamb to Lion?

2009-03-01T16:08:00.000-08:00

Well, March is certainly coming in like a lamb: We're supposed to have over 70 degrees this week! Whether March goes out like a lion remains to be seen, but I do hope that we get precipitation and plenty of that through the month. Things are so dry here.

March events:

7th - Rebekah's 6th Birthday
30th - Coryn's ? Birthday

Happy Birthday Bekah and Coryn! We love you!

Sherilyn is looking forward to traveling to New York for Spring Break the 27th and returning the 3rd of April just in time for General Conference.

I talked with Randy last night and he informed me of their plans to come home to stay in October. Yeah!!! That's a great improvement over the previous plans of Spring 2010!

Please let me know if I've forgotten something that I should include on the "calendar." Love you all!

Mom

My Blogs

2009-03-01T03:44:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

Sorry I haven't written for a while. I hope everyone is doing well.

I just wanted to let you know about some blogs I've been working on. In a wonderful article in the July 2008 Ensign by Elder Ballard encourages all members of the church to take advantage of the wonderful technology on the Internet to share the gospel. In response to his counsel I've created two new blogs.

Pure Testimony
Scriptural Insights

Pure Testimony is a place where those interested can go and place their testimony's online. I've already recorded my testimony of the God and Jesus Christ and uploaded it to YouTube. It is linked at my blog along with a transcription of the testimony. If anyone is interested in posting their testimony, either by video or in writing, let me know by emailing me at puretestimony@gmail.com. I'll be adding more videos soon.

Scriptural Insights is a blog where I record impressions received as I read the scriptures. I extend the same invitation. If anyone would like to join me there send and email to wfmheart@gmail.com

I'm also very concerned about the state of affairs in our country. I've started a political blog, in which I state my various concerns, entitled The Title of Liberty.

Our country is facing the greatest challenge to our national freedoms we have ever faced. Elder L. Tom Perry, in a talk given in 1976 stated the following:

Our commitment to America has been testified to by many, but I will point out to you special witnesses who have indicated our responsibilities to this land.

First from Brigham Young, second president of the Church: “Will the Constitution be destroyed? No: it will be held inviolate by this people; and, as Joseph Smith said, ‘The time will come when the destiny of this nation will hang upon a single thread. At that critical juncture, this people will step forth and save it from the threatened destruction.’ It will be so.” (Journal of Discourses, 7:15.)

Now another witness, John Taylor, third president of the Church: “When the people shall have torn to shreds the Constitution of the United States, the elders of Israel will be found holding it up to the nations of the earth, and proclaiming liberty and equal rights to all men, and extending the hand of fellowship to the oppressed of all nations.” (The Gospel Kingdom, Deseret Book Co., 1943, p. 219.) This is part of the program.

A final witness is from George Q. Cannon, former member of the First Presidency, who said that “the day will come when the Constitution and free government under it will be sustained and preserved by this people.” (JD, 23:104.)

Now, I declare to you that if we are not in the beginning stages of the fulfillment of this prophecy, we are at least in the stages where we are preparing for its fulfillment.

Over thirty-two years have passed since Elder Perry made the above statement. Are we any closer now than we were then to the fulfillment of this prophesy? The answer is a resounding yes. Today we find ourselves in a very dangerous and precarious position, facing challenges similar to those of Captain Moroni and the Nephites in ancient times. From within our own nation, we face an enemy that is every bit as real as Amalickiah and his followers – people in high places seeking for power. The weapons they use today are different, however their intent is the same: destroy the foundation of liberty—namely religion, peace, freedom, family, and especially God. Through great subtlety and flattering words they bray forth their message as they ignore the U.S. constitution and seek to further entrench a socialistic welfare state and a government sponsored religion of secular humanism and moral relativism throughout our nation.

Their message is expressly the opposit of the Lord's prescription for freedom found in Doctrine and Covenants 98:4-10

4 And now, verily I say unto you concerning the laws of the land, it is my will that my people should observe to do all things whatsoever I command them.

5 And that law of the land which is constitutional, supporting that principle of freedom in maintaining rights and privileges, belongs to all mankind, and is justifiable before me.

6 Therefore, I, the Lord, justify you, and your brethren of my church, in befriending that law which is the constitutional law of the land;

7 And as pertaining to law of man, whatsoever is more or less than this, cometh of evil.

8 I, the Lord God, make you free, therefore ye are free indeed; and the law also maketh you free.

9 Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn.

10 Wherefore, honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil.
11 And I give unto you a commandment, that ye shall forsake all evil and cleave unto all good that ye shall live by every word which proceedeth forth out of the mouth of God

These wonderful verses tell us exactly what we need to do to be free. If we will follow God's laws and live by every word that he gives us we will be free, for he has said "the truth shall make you free". If we will abide by the principles of freedom in the constitution, and hold up those principles for all mankind, we will maintain our rights and privileges and thereby be free and help others to be free. If we will diligently seek out good, honest, wise men and women to represent us in the government, we will be free. They also describe what will happen if we do anything less--the wicked will rule, their works will come of evil, and not only we, but all mankind will suffer.

I love the United States of America. I love the United States Constitution. I love the Lord. I am determined to do everything I can, even to my dying breath, to be one of the members of the church of whom Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, John Taylor, and Elder George Q. Cannon prophesied. Hence my blog. If anyone is interested in joining me on my blog, let me know by emailing me at ttoliberty@gmail.com. It's small, but growing.

I love you all,

Randy

Sister Deming's Funeral

2009-02-24T14:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the funeral for Linda Deming. It was sad but also uplifting and I wish you all could have been there with me.

Sherilyn and I went to Parker to church with Joel and Coryn on Sunday. After Sacrament Meeting was over, Seth came and found us, full of smiles and hugs. Dave was also there as well as Drew, Justin and Troy. The girls were all dressing Linda at the funeral home. Poor Dave looked pretty subdued and lonely. I didn't even recognize Drew at first--he's really matured! And a very good-looking fellow! I asked him quite pointedly if he was dating anyone and he admitted "no." I told him that he was quite a catch and needed to give the girls a chance. Both Justin and Troy are currently serving in Iraq and were flown home for their mother's funeral. Troy's wife is also in the service stationed in Germany with their children. Justin is on his 3rd marriage to a girl living on the East Coast somewhere.

We saw the boys again that evening at the funeral home; also Hallie which most of you likely don't know. We didn't see Stacie--she had stepped-out just before we got there and didn't come back until after we left. We were also happy to see some Arvada people; and some "no longer Arvada people." The Riggs asked about everyone. And Bishop Bob and Susie Miller seemed especially happy to see us and were so interested in hearing about everyone. They said repeatedly what wonderful children I have! I know that, but it's always great when other people recognize that! I was pleased to spend quite a lot of time visiting with Seth's wife, Linda. She's really a lovely girl--so personable and friendly. I don't think I've seen her since they were married. They've been trying for 4 years now to have a baby and are finally considering en vitro. I asked her to fill me in on the rest of the family--I've never fully understood who was born to whom. The eldest, Dean, is Dave's son from his first marriage. Sherilyn, Joel, Coryn and I met him last summer at Linda's & Dave's home in Parker. Dean looks very much like Dave, just younger, and he lives on the Western Slope. The next three kids, Hallie, who lives in Longmont, Troy and Justin are all Linda's from her first marriage. Stacie, Seth, and Drew were all born to Dave & Linda after their marriage. I realized that my connection to this great family was all through Linda; now I'm going to have to make some effort to keep in touch with them.

The funeral was held in the Alkire Building, same place as Dad's. Seth, Hallie, Stacie and Dru all gave brief remembrances of their Mom. The CM Chorale sang "O, Divine Redeemer" and "Consider the Lilies of the Field" in the middle and at the end of the service. President Darin Forbes conducted the meeting and also gave remarks before the closing music. Such an uplifting message. It was great to hear him speak again. There were so many people there that I wish I could have talked to. I spoke to a few but there just wasn't time to see all before they were gone. I don't know if any of you remember Sandy Gould from the Golden Ward. She sings in the Chorale and happened to be in the foyer when I was so I got to renew that acquaintance. Also Bishop Lish from the Golden Ward--remember Bishop Lish? He still looks great! I didn't talk with him, just shook his hand as I reached behind where I was sitting.

I was sad that I never got to speak with Stacie. I intended to get there early enough yesterday to see her before the funeral, but I just didn't make it. I would never have recognized her: she is still recovering from the effects of Leukemia and the treatments. She lost all her hair, and the new hair coming in is still very short and is coming in curly as can be. She must take some medication that is also making her flesh very puffy so makes her look more filled-out than normal. She has to have help walking, but according to Linda, she's doing very well and will likely make a full recovery.

I will try to get addresses and possibly emails for these kids, so you can all keep in touch.

Oh I Don't Know...

2009-02-06T21:26:00.000-08:00

Hello my dear and wonderful family!
I just thought I would take a moment to tell you all that I love you oh so very much and that I am so happy and proud to be a part of this family!
I had All State Choir this weekend- it was amazing! I bought a CD so we can all listen to it sometime- it was really quite the paramount experience!
It's Friday and that makes me really happy. I know the weekend is going to go by so quickly- as it always does- but then I have two four-day weeks of school in a row- yay! And then I have to have my term paper done and a million other things after that, but I'll not worry about all of that right now. :)
The spring musical is coming up as well- opening night of Footloose! is next Thursday, and we film the show on Wednesday. I am really excited for this musical- it is going to be loads of fun! Performances are always the best; rehearsals are fun and all, but they are hard work and lots of people yell at you for various reasons, so it just makes the performances that much better. hehe. Besides, I love the feeling of being up on stage and giving your best to a captive audience! I love the sound of applause when you're up there on the stage. It's a great adrenaline-filled feeling.
A friend and I started an official philosophy group at school and that has been going very well: right now we have about 10 really active people participating (it is an invite basis, so we had about 35 people interested and there are about 17 who have continued to show interest- which is great) and we are currently discussing T.S. Eliot's The Waste Land. It is quite the esoteric piece! But I am fully enjoying the discussion and I look forward to all of the other wonderful works and people we have laid out to study the rest of the semester and through next year! I really hope we can establish the group well enough so that people can continue it once we have graduated next year. There are so many people who would enjoy the subjects we talk about and it is such a beneficial group as far as intellect is concerned. :)

I suppose that's all I have to say right now; remember that I love you all more than it is possible to express and I think of everyone of you every single day!
I'll update sometime soon, I hope. School is really tough right now, but I'll do my best :)

It's February!

2009-02-01T16:37:00.000-08:00

Birthdays in February:
2nd--Emily
5th--Uncle John
10th--Timber
24th--Erica

Happy Birthday Everyone!

Just to update you all on my trip to Utah:

I had a great time with Loren, Erica and Little Sophie! She's a beautiful baby! And I had such sweet moments with her. It was hard to leave her to come home. Loren and Erica are managing well with all the challenges a first new baby brings. They certainly weren't getting enough sleep at night and I hope that Sophie learns very soon how to go to sleep in the evenings. Erica is going to school Tuesdays and Thursdays while Grandma Hawkins tends little Sophie and takes her up to the campus to nurse at noon. I'm so glad they are close to Erica's family during this time.

Loren and Erica have a wonderful little apartment! It's quiet, warm and comfortable and certainly perfect for their needs at this time. They borrowed an air mattress for me so I didn't have to sleep on the couch except for the night we forgot to charge the pump.

Their ward meets across the street in the Bountiful Tabernacle. Such a beautiful chapel and a really nice building. How would you all like to be able to walk across the street to church on Sunday? I loved being there on Sunday--great meetings and great feeling!

We went to dinner one night and then for Italian gelato afterward. That was nice!

And we spent three evenings with Erica's family. They were all so welcoming and gracious to me--made me feel that I was part of their family as well. Erica's brother came home from Taiwan on his winter break the same night I arrived. He was so excited to see Sophie.

The Salt Lake Valley was under a terrible atmospheric conversion when I got there that continued 4 days longer when it began raining then snowed Sunday and Monday and really cleaned the air well. I had forgotten how nasty the air can get under those conversions. I remember those from my time in Provo 40 years ago! I guess that's one good reason for living on this side (Front Range Denver) of that mountain mass. I guess we still get the conversions, but not often and not as bad.

My flights were good for the most part--just delayed a bit on the way home which made me miss the early buses so I didn't get to the Park-n-ride until about 10 pm. Sherilyn was so sick but still came to pick me up. She continued sick nearly the whole week until I finally called in my Home Teacher and companion to give her a blessing. She was better by the next morning and was able to get to school finally that day--Friday.

I love you all and hope that everything is good in your lives and at your homes tonight.

Here are some pictures of Sophie.

January Happenings

2009-01-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

January 17th - Uncle Bruce's Birthday
January 19th - Sherilyn's Birthday
January 19th - Jensyn's Birthday
January 25th - Aunt Jill's Birthday
January 30th - Joel's Birthday
January 30th - Dad's Birthday

Emily's birthday is February 2nd in case I forget to post early enough in February.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVERYONE!

Other happenings for me in January:
I have a ticket to fly to Salt Lake City on the 20th. I'm so excited to spend a week with Loren, Erica, and Sophie! And be back on the 26th. Sherilyn will be on her own for that week and we'll see how she does.

Other than that, it's taken me almost 2 weeks of 2009 to get on board with a new year. Sherilyn and I were both sick for a while after Christmas. We're good now, but have lingering coughs and stuffy noses. I finally got Christmas boxed-up and carried the boxes to the basement just 2 days ago. They're waiting in a stack for help from Sherilyn to organize on the shelves.

Also, I am pleased with ALL my wonderful Christmas gifts from all of you! Thank you!!

Thank you

2008-12-29T19:32:00.000-08:00

Thank you Mom for all the work you put it into making Christmas special. The food was delicious and you made sure we did it all.. Played games, ate good food, caroled, visited. It was great to see Joel, Coryn, JJ, Jensyn, and Lincoln. They kept up laughing. We are so glad Sherilyn was there to pick up the slack when all of us got sick. Her voice is so beautiful and we can tell you have gotten even better. Mollie, we hope you didn't get sick and we are so glad you made that long drive. It wouldn't have been the same without you. Seth, of course, introduced us to Incan gold and kept us entertained. We missed Loren and Erica, but we were happy that Erica brought beautiful little Sophie into this world. We missed Kimberly, Randy , and the whole English clan, but we were glad Skype brought us together for a little Christmas reunion and political banter.

We are sorry we got sick and weren't at 100%, but we are grateful you put up with us! WE love you and Happy New Year!

Random Thoughts

2008-12-23T22:28:00.001-08:00

Well, I woke up at 2:30 this morning and by 3:00 I couldn't go back to sleep so I got up and started looking at the blog and getting some pictures ready to upload hear. Here's a collection of a few random shots I've taken over the past few months.

A few sunset shots from our back yard and down the lane.

Joey in a calculating mood (albeit the calculator is upside down).

Our Joey angel on the back yard slide. Don't know if he's coming or going!

Bekah boo with here play dough bird's nest. That was one busy bird!

Look Dad! See my leaf?

Camilla being "squirrely" at St. Leonard's Farm.

I'm a nasty viking, and don't you forget it!

Birthday Girl!

Just Chillin.

Two beautiful views!

My sweetie as lovely as ever!

Random shots from Fountains abbey

Well, I'm finally feeling tired again and am going back to sleep. Merry Christmas Eve!

Tis The Season!

2008-12-11T08:22:00.000-08:00

Well all is well in Parker. We are just trying to keep our waist lines from expanding but other then that not much to report on. I don't think I have mentioned I have started to watch some children out of our home. A pair of twins (Raine and Colby) who are 4 1/2. They come everyday and another little girl (Morgan) who comes very part-time. It is definitely taking some adjusting but I think in the long run it will be a good thing. Desperate times call for desperate measures.
Joel is keeping very busy trying to drum up business. I am grateful for his determination and drive. He is a hard worker!!
The boys are all doing well. Lincoln is starting to talk a lot. He repeats things I say and will try to do everything the bigger boys are doing. JJ is loving Kindergarten. He comes home with anywhere from 2 to 6 sheets of homework. I know I think it's a little much too but he is learning quickly. Jensyn is my little side kick. He is so easy going; he loves to just hang out with me and says some of the funniest things I ever heard.

We are so looking forward to Christmas. We can't wait to see everyone. We will miss the England clan but will be thinking of them. We wish everyone safe travels and we pray that there will be no stomach flu or snow storm this year.

An Addendum to December Happenings

2008-12-07T11:41:00.000-08:00

In addition to what I posted below, I wanted to tell everyone that Katie (Barker) and Rany and children have moved to Pagosa Springs just since Thanksgiving. He got a very good job offer so they took it and are currently getting settled. But the real news is that they are getting married on the 19th. His divorce finally reached settlement recently, so they are traveling back to Vernal to have their Bishop marry them there. They've been as active as is possible in their situation and their ward has been so wonderful to them. So now they can do it up legally and look forward to being sealed in the temple!

Just wanted to let you all know about a few things happening this month.

Birthdays:

14th -- Aunt Kathie, Dan Maughan, and in memory of Grandma Schenk
24th -- Christi Faught
29th -- Lani Olevao

Boyd and Emily are flying-in the evening of the 19th (yayyy!) and leaving the 26th. (Boo-Hoo!)

Mollie drives here on the 24th and leaves on January 3rd. (Yayy and Boo respectively.)

I thought some of the things we could do after Boyd and Emily get here are caroling, recipe exchange, and a game night at the Nelsons in Parker. Is that ok with you Parker Nelsons? We'll carol here this year, now that we know a few people around who will love to have us come. Let's think about the recipe exchange Saturday afternoon, the 20th; maybe go to the Nelson's the evening of Sunday, the 21st; and do the caroling for Family Night, the 22nd. Anyone who wants to give me some feedback on these dates or has better suggestions of things to do, please let me know.

We'll have a small Christmas Eve devotional/party here for the ones who are here. I know Joel's family head to Chris' for that night. Then we'll do Christmas dinner/day/evening here; and love every minute of the confusion!

Latest Happenings

2008-12-04T09:59:00.000-08:00

Wow! December is really upon us. We had a super Thanksgiving, despite rushing Joseph to the hospital the night before with a badly burned hand (cooked on the stove top, but healing nicely under a thick dressing). Our good friends joined us for a late (teatime) meal, followed by games. They brought Black Forest Trifle for dessert, so we saved the pumpkin pie for breakfast on Friday. Actually, I might have to add trifle to our Thanksgiving meal from now on, in memory of our time here. Scrumptious!

We awoke this morning to several inches of snow--nearly unheard of these days in England. The girls had a blast sledding ("sledging" in England) down the hills of the pasture behind us. We built a few snowmen too. Dad got to stay home from work and all the schools were closed, so everyone got in on the fun. It was super!

Yesterday I took Emma and Camilla to York. We were joined by several other families who home school. While there, we attended a workshop on the Romans, specifically the science behind their catapults. In the end, we divided into 7 teams, designed and built unique catapults with plastic spoons, rubberbands, and popsicle sticks, then competed to see who could fire the most accurately. Great fun for all!

The usual Christmas happenings are starting up. Emma has her Christmas Fiddle Fingers performance this Saturday. All of us will be participating in musical numbers for our ward Christmas party and the Christmas Eve carol service. Rebekah is an angel in the school Nativity play. Then there are a few parties to fit in here and there, so there is no doubt that the season has arrived. Maybe it wouldn't feel right if we didn't have all this going on. Happy Christmas to you all!

SHOWER FOR ERICA AND SOPHIE

2008-11-30T17:42:00.000-08:00

Hey! We pulled it off! It was the perfect opportunity to shower our Erica with love and gifts and we even surprised her!

Over a month ago, the idea came to me while I was visiting with Loren over the cell: "Why don't we give Erica a surprise baby shower while you're here?" He was in agreement and so I flew into action. Plans were made, invitations were mailed, offers of help were accepted, food made, house cleaned, and it all came off beautifully November 29th!

In she walked with Loren precisely at 2:15 (Perfect timing, Loren!) after seeing a movie and having lunch out.

The guests were all assembled the food was on the table, and dear friend, Michele Sobek had all the games ready. She was ushered in wearing her shy little grin and wondering about all these faces she didn't know. I think she was truly surprised and happy.

Attending the shower were Grandma Jewel McGinnis and Coryn--

Aunt Barb McGinnis, Debbie Orvin, Cindy and Sarah Cross--

Our beautiful photographer and #1 helper, Sherilyn--

Mollie and Michele Sobek, who prepared all the games--

And of course, Mom, the reluctant but determined hostess.

We ate, played games, visited, and Erica opened some lovely gifts.

I even made a little album to record the event, Sherilyn took the pictures, and then I edited and printed the ones for the album, so Erica could take it home with her the next day.

We love you Erica! So glad that you and Loren are taking care of each other; and we're all looking forward to the birth of little Sophie in January!

THANKSGIVING DAY

2008-11-30T16:30:00.000-08:00

Well, now that the yams and green bean casserole are all eaten and the turkeys have all gone home, (I think Uncle John is still hanging around until Tuesday!) I'm thinking about the last 4 days and wishing they could have lasted longer. We missed having Kimberly, Randy and family, Boyd, Emily and boys, and Mollie (who would be joining us the next day) & Bryan; but we who were here had a wonderful time. It was an exceptional Thanksgiving for me, since my sister, Kathie was around and joined us. But not only was she here, John flew to be with her, Camie & Jake and boys joined us, and even Cari & Justin and baby flew from Texas to be here. We were lucky that they were willing to share our Thanksgiving festivities with us.

We all met at Joel's & Coryn's: Seth picked up Loren & Erica at the airport on his way to Parker; Sherilyn & I brought Grandma Jewel with us; and the John Nelsons all drove over the short distance from Aurora. Also spending the day with us was Coryn's mom, Chris, and their friends Melanie & Tom and children. Everyone shared in the food preparation and we truly had a feast--could have fed twice as many as we had!

After dinner we visited and played games: Scattergories and Ticket to Ride. Sherilyn and Uncle John managed to win Ticket to Ride; while Scattergories was more just a free for all with lots of laughter and fun. Coryn helped the children make Turkeys out of apples and raisins; and they really loved that!

The Dessert table was laden with sumptuous goodies that tempted us all. So even though we were already full to bursting, we partook through-out the afternoon and evening of wonderful sweets.

When we had eaten all we could, and Joel & Coryn were begging us to all go home, we all took our leave.

Thanks everyone for a terrific day! Thanks Loren and Erica for flying over from Bountiful. Thanks Joel & Coryn for letting us make the messes at your home. And, thanks Sherilyn, for taking the photos so we can remember the day!

Thankful

2008-11-27T06:48:00.000-08:00

Dearest Children and Grandchildren,

A day of Thanksgiving--a day to be together--to feel the joy of family and to share the love. I have found over the last three years that being grateful has some side effects/benefits that I hadn't thought about before.

When our Dad and Grandpa died, I was thrust into a life that I had feared and didn't want to be a part of. I had to face present difficulties and an uncertain future alone. I prayed more than I had ever prayed in my life and I knew that there were many others praying with and for me. Something I didn't expect began to happen to me: I had an overwhelming feeling of gratitude! I was burying my husband, yet I felt a joy that trumped the sorrows! I know that I was feeling the comfort of the presence of the Holy Ghost. I had been grieving the loss of security and safety, but this feeling brought me such peace and assurance. I had insights about the Plan of Salvation that struck me like never before. I was grateful for this Plan and for our Precious Savior's atonement that made it all possible. I felt gratitude for His power that had bound us all together for Eternity and knew that death was only the next step in the Plan and would not separate us forever. My heart lifted as I contemplated the kind of life Dad had lived, where he is at this time, and the work he is doing. President Lewis' words at the funeral gave me further comfort as he spoke of how involved Dad would still be in each of our lives because his calling as father and husband continues even now. He also spoke of the compensatory blessings that would come. I am witness of those. Many miracles have been wrought in my/our behalf and I am so thankful for that!

And certainly not least of my blessings was the presence of each of you in my life! Thank you for caring for me, for helping me then and now, and just being part of me! You are the BEST part of me!

Let me finish what I began: the result of those feelings of overwhelming gratitude three years ago, was the joy and the peace. That was the miracle. And IS the miracle. No matter what our situation, what sorrows or disappointments that beset us, if we remember our blessings and vocally give thanks to our Father above in our prayers and throughout our day, WE WILL FEEL HAPPY!

May each of you put this to the test is my prayer for you this Thanksgiving Day and every day.

Love,

Mother/Grandma

Nelson (colorado) update!

2008-11-23T19:39:00.000-08:00

Hey, bet you all thought I wasn't playing anymore. I'm no quitter. I just can't find much time to write. Thanksgiving is closing in on us fast but I think I'm ready for it. I have delegated and assigned. I think it will, no wait, it will be great. We are so excited to see Loren and Erica. I have to admit JJ is probably the most excited to see Uncle Loren so that he can get a plane ride, which he hasn't had in quite sometime. It will be a full house but the more the merrier right! I love holidays and I love that we can all get together to share them with each other. Those of you that can't be here will be missed but we will just have to eat your share. Know we love you all and are thinking of you on this very Thankful Thanksgiving.

All-County Choir comes to a close

2008-11-22T16:52:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was All-County Choir- it was a really great experience and I learned a lot from our director. We sang four songs that all turned out wonderfully: Dirait-on, Ave Verum Corpus, Animal Crackers, and Zion's Walls. Here are a couple pictures of the eight of us from my school who went, and one with my choir teacher. I bought a CD so you all can listen to it!!!

I love you all!!!

Sherilyn

Linking up

2008-11-17T21:16:00.000-08:00

So, I am not sure if everyone has a link to our blog and Boyd wrote a really nice post this week for our blog, so I wanted to put a link to our blog..
http://newyorknelsons.blogspot.com/2008/11/coincidence.html

Just a Note of Little Importance

2008-11-17T19:21:00.000-08:00

Hello my sweet family members! It's about 8:30 Monday evening and all I have left for homework is reading and taking notes (aka scribbling all over the margins) on Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience". I had a chance to start it in class, and I did, but I found that it was much easier to drift off either in mental contemplation or a state of mental inactivity.... Anyway, so here I am, bored with doing homework, and enjoying a lovely bowl of minty-chocolatey-goodness that Mom made for me (we call it Jello's cook-and-serve chocolate pudding with peppermint extract....). In an attempt to be somewhat utilizing with my time and energy, since I can't seem to go to bed just yet, I decided to write a little blog to you all- whoever may be reading these blogs at least (and to spread this to those who don't, of course) to tell you that I love you so very much and that I hope you all have a wonderful remainder of your evenings!
That's all; now I'm going to have a nice little FHE time with Mommy and my chocolate pudding.
Goodnight!
♥

The latest from England

2008-11-12T11:46:00.000-08:00

It's great to read everybody's posts! I'm afraid I'm new to blogging and working with digital photos, so be patient with my learning curve.

We made a trip to the Chester Zoo a few weeks back. The weather was cold, windy, and very wet a few times, but the zoo was fabulous. It seemed to go on forever and ever. I think we only saw a third to half of it. What we saw was great, however. The bat cave was my personal favorite. They zoomed in and out of all the people, but they never collided with us. Randy and Joseph loved the elephants and giraffes. By the way, have you ever seen a giraffe try to eat grass? It is hilarious to see them spread their legs really wide to try to get their head down low enough--giraffe yoga maybe?

School is full-steam ahead for all of us. Rebekah is still across the street and loving it. She is getting stronger in both reading and writing, and has started counting by twos and fives. She got to stay for after-school club on Fridays to play football (soccer) until the weather turned too cold. What a big girl! England announced a new program to teach mandatory sex education in all grades, starting at age 4. I haven't learned yet what that entails for the young children, but I intend to find out. It worries us a lot to think of knowledge of such sacredness being desseminated in a worldly way to those who are too young to be entrusted and/or burdened with it.

Camilla is queen of Powerpoints this year. If an assignment can be done using Powerpoint, then she will find a way to do it. She did a presentation on Justinian the Great using sound, text, and pictures that was very fun. Today it was a fractions test that she did. If you click on the right answer you hear clapping, but a wrong answer gives you a beeping sound. I don't see that it was worth the time as far as her math practice goes, but she sure had fun doing it. Last week she did a puppet adaptation of Sinbad from 1001 Arabian Nights, but I insisted that it had to be in our homemade puppet theatre, not on a computer screen. It turned out great!

Emma is working hard at violin this fall. She had a theory exam in Harrogate last week that she has been preparing for for months. It contained stuff I didn't know until college (extensive work with scales, chords, transposition, and even composing without a piano at hand). We are crossing our fingers that she passed so that she can go before the board next spring as a grade 7 candidate. Here they have grades 1-8 (I think its 8) for every musical instrument. Students must demonstrate their ability before a jury to be graded. It determines their ability to get into ensembles and eventually a university program. I don't plan on Emma going to a University here, but the experience is good in any case. Anyhow, she can't be graded higher than a grade 5 until she passes this theory exam, so here's hoping.

Joseph is the terror of the household right now. He loves butter and cheese, so he will sneak both and snack on them behind a curtain to avoid detection. He also successfully flooded one of the bathrooms today, and I really do mean flooded. I thought the girls were upstairs with him, but he was in the bathroom alone for about ten minutes before I saw water dripping in several spots from the ceiling in the garage. The bathroom and garage floors were swamped, so we tore up the vinyl and turned on some fans. I certainly hope it dries quickly. I'm just grateful it was that bathroom rather than one of the others.

Now you know why we are both going gray. Here's to kids!

ALL-STATE CHOIR!

2008-11-10T15:16:00.000-08:00

Hello again!!!
I just received news today that I have been chosen to participate in the Colorado All-State Choir! I am so excited! I'll tell you all how it goes as the time gets closer &c.! I love you all!!!

Sherilyn ♥

Arvada Gathering

2008-11-10T11:35:00.000-08:00

On Saturday November 1st, Sherilyn and I spent a wonderful evening with friends in Arvada. We were invited to join at the Larson's NEW (and fantastic!) home just up Indiana from Grandma, to spend some time with Dave and Linda Deming. In essence, it was a "farewell" party for Linda.
Linda was very emotional, but seemed so pleased to see many friends from the Arvada Stake. She struggled to form her words, but her mind was clear and she can communicate given time and patience. She has definitely gone "down-hill" from when we saw her in July. And she's only been given a few months more to linger in this life.
She was able to tell me about Stacy: that so far (on the 1st) the bone marrow transplant has worked and that if she could make it a few more days, then she was "home-free!" That was good news and I know it must be a relief to Linda to know that Stacy can continue to raise those little boys.
We saw many people that seemed so happy to see us--the Larsons of course, the Bagleys, the Stiefvaters, the Orvins, Kathy Howard, the Rozeskis, the Loflands, the Palmers, the Riggs, and others that I don't think any of you know. So many asked about all of you.
It was truly a sweet time for me. I realized how much I miss "home"; and how much this ward doesn't feel like home to me.

All-County Choir

2008-11-07T16:45:00.000-08:00

Hello dearest family!
I just wanted to let you know that I tried out for All-County Choir yesterday and the list was posted today! I got in! Only two people from each section get to go, and I feel SO privileged to be one of the two sopranos selected! Yay! I'll keep you updated on how it goes!
Love you all SO MUCH!♥♥♥

Sherilyn

November News

2008-11-04T15:07:00.000-08:00

Of course you all know about Thanksgiving this month and it will be wonderful to see the ones who are planning to be here. We'll be dining at Joel's and Coryn's again and will join with Coryn's mom and siblings. We'll have to plan some other fun things while you out-of-towners are in town. Any suggestions?
Just wanted to let everyone know that our little Joseph turns two this month on the 29th. Happy Birthday, little boy! Please post some pictures of him (and all of you!) when you have his birthday bash. And on the 22nd, our Bryan turns ???. Happy Birthday, Bryan!
I still haven't seen Christmas lists from most of you. Now if you want something more than just Amazon giftcards, you need to get on the stick and get it done! Send your lists to me and I'll distribute to everyone who needs to see them.
Another cool thing that I wanted to let everyone know about is Camilla and Sherilyn are contributing essays, poetry, etc. to a blog. They each are doing a wonderful job and you all will want to look at their submissions. The name of the blog is: Through the Eyes of a Child.
Love you all!

Post Halloween Festvities...aka FHE!

2008-11-03T19:33:00.000-08:00

Hello! Mom and I decided to finally carve some pumpkins for Family Night tonight! :) I have been so busy with school that I am so glad we had the chance to do them tonight! Mom is such a good sport! ♥ They're awfully cute pumpkins too, if I do say so myself!
We tried to get the lighting right so we could see us and the pumpkins lit at the same time- I think they turned out pretty well considering the shutter was just about as fast as molasses with the lack of light :D Enjoy!!! Love, Mom and Sherilyn

We're In

2008-11-02T21:03:00.000-08:00

Hi all! I am trying to get Boyd involved with this whole blogging thing. I just informed him how to check this blog out, so hopefully we can get him contributing. This is a great idea! So, Coryn asked how Halloween in New York works.. Well, our apartment building puts out a sign up sheet and then you can go trick or treating to those doors. Also, certain street blocks are closed off and you can go around to the outsides of the building. The decorations are amazing. This year, however, we decided to see what it was like trick-or-treating in the suburbs and we went to our friends out on Long Island. We had a great time!

OK..... I know you're reading this!

2008-10-31T13:20:00.000-07:00

Good Job Sherilyn and good attempt Mom. I don't know how everyone else is doing but I thought I would post a HAPPY HALLOWEEN note. We (meaning the kids)are so excited it's finally Halloween. I think JJ started asking in May, when his birthday was over when Halloween was coming. It's HERE!!! It's times like these that I wish we had all our kids in the same state so they could enjoy this time together. Boyd, how does Halloween work in NYC? I can imagine it's a little different then here. Well I hope that you all have a happy and safe Halloween. We love you all!

Batman

and Robin

I know I have another kid I just don't have a picture of him in his costume yet. I will post it later. We love him just as much.

2008-10-27T14:52:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Looks like I have the first post (after Coryn's of course)! Yay! I love this idea!!! Mom, you are brilliant! And Coryn, you are likewise brilliant!
I just wanted to let you all know that I auditioned for All-State Choir here in Colorado this past weekend! The Audition was a little nerve-racking, as is natural, but I think it went very well! I am very excited to find out the results in a few weeks! I love and miss you all!
I'll update soon- Sherilyn ♥

Welcome One and All!!

2008-10-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce the creation of our new Family Blog. Mom has requested that we all have a place to go to keep each other up to date with the happy, important, crazy and exciting things that are going on in our families lives. I think it's a great idea and am excited to keep in touch more often. Please feel free to post whatever your hearts desire, big or small. We want to know what,when and how you are all doing so don't be shy. My hope and Moms hope is we will all try to make time to post so that she doesn't always have to be the middle man. Happy posting everyone!!